Roof Inspection

Why Do I Need a Roof Inspection?

Believe it or not, the average roof protects your home for about 20 years—but only if you stay on top of regular maintenance and address minor damage early. Ignoring small issues today can lead to major expenses tomorrow.

For most homeowners, spotting those early warning signs is difficult without training. That’s why scheduling a professional roof inspection is one of the smartest things you can do to protect your home and investment.

The cost of a roof evaluation is minimal compared to the cost of extensive roof repairs or a full replacement. Wouldn’t you rather detect a hidden leak or structural issue before it turns into an expensive problem?

Prefer monthly payments? Explore our flexible financing options.

Explore financing

Tip Top Roof Check‑up

Our 18‑point inspection helps catch small issues before they become big problems. Choose a category below to see what we check and why it matters.

You’ll get a written summary of findings, photos where helpful, and a clear plan to extend the life of your roof—or a straight‑shooting estimate if replacement makes more sense.

Interior Inspection

We look for the earliest signs of moisture where it shows up first—ceilings, walls, and around penetrations.

Roofs Can Leak for Years Before You See Evidence

To add years of life to your roof, the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) recommends two roof inspections each year by a licensed roofing professional to avoid premature roof failure. Studies show that small leaks are the most damaging kind—when undetected, they can silently erode your home’s structure, much like an undetected illness.

“Your roof could be leaking right now, and you don’t even know it… roofs can leak for up to 13 years before you see evidence on the inside of the house.”

-Nathan Borntreger

Comprehensive roof inspections become even more critical during tough economic times, helping you maximize your roof’s service life and avoid premature roof replacement. As we like to say: the only people who can afford to ignore their roof are those who can afford to buy a new one.

While you can perform a preliminary inspection yourself—checking for shingles that are curling, blistering, or missing; signs of wear around chimneys, pipes, and penetrations; or broken and missing tiles—nothing compares to a professional inspection. A qualified roofer knows how to walk your roof safely, identify hidden issues, and locate the kinds of small leaks that lead to costly repairs if left unchecked. For optimal peace of mind, pair this with a consistent roof maintenance routine by signing up for our Roof Care Club

Roof Inspection FAQs

What should I do after a big storm to protect my roof’s life?

Clear gutters and downspouts—overflows are leak starters.
Walk the property (from the ground) to spot debris piles, missing/curling shingles, or exposed areas; remove loose debris safely.
Book a professional inspection if anything looks off, or if the storm was significant. Pros know what fails first and what needs immediate repair vs. monitoring. If damage is extensive, they’ll also advise on repair vs. replacement, materials, and next steps.

Can my roofer handle my insurance claim for me?

No—Florida law bars roofers from filing, negotiating, or managing claims on your behalf. We fix the roof; licensed public adjusters handle the claim. We’ll refer you to reputable Sarasota-area adjusters and coordinate our documentation so your claim is airtight.

What exactly does SonShine check during a professional inspection?

A full exterior–attic–interior sweep: flashing, vents, gutters, underlayment, fasteners, granular loss, moss/algae, damaged caulking; plus attic ventilation and any moisture, staining, wood rot, or pest evidence—then a clear outline of issues and the best repair plan.

What documentation should I have on file to protect an insurance claim?

Think receipts and receipts for your receipts: clear, date-stamped photos (wide + close-ups), a digital inspection report, past invoices, warranties, and prior claim records—organized in a dedicated digital folder. That pre-storm evidence is your strongest antidote to “lack of proof.”

My roof has minor issues now. Should I still get a pre-storm inspection?

Yes. The inspection finds small problems you can fix before a storm—so they don’t become the insurer’s excuse to deny coverage later. New roofs benefit too; insurers look for any reason to minimize payouts, and pre-storm documentation shuts that down.

What should I do right after a storm—before I file a claim?

Take photos first (don’t move anything), call SonShine for an inspection and temporary protection (e.g., tarping), then loop in a licensed public adjuster. Don’t authorize permanent repairs until your adjuster documents everything, and don’t let the carrier’s field adjuster inspect without your adjuster present.

How often should I get my roof inspected in Florida?

Twice a year is the pro rule of thumb, and especially ahead of hurricane season. Small leaks can quietly do the worst damage—roofs can even leak for years before you see it inside—so regular inspections pay for themselves.

What is a pre-storm roof inspection—and why does it matter?

It’s your paper shield before hurricane season. We document your roof’s condition before a storm so insurers can’t shrug off damage as “pre-existing.” That proof makes denials harder and gives you leverage when it counts. It’s quick, affordable, and can save you tens of thousands.

See All FAQs